10 items every student should have in their wallet or purse

If you’re a new student, make your life easier and pack these 10 essential items in your wallet or purse:

Cash

Whether you’re paying that overdue library fine or grabbing a coffee on the way to a lecture, it’s worth keeping some cash on you — you’ll never know when you may need it.

Bank card

When your change runs low, you’ll need a bank card. Usually, student bank accounts offer the best benefits, like 0% interest on that all-important overdraft and new customer incentives, like free railcards or cashback.

Student ID

Depending on the university you attend, you may need to show your student ID card to open doors and get around campus. Keeping it in your purse or wallet will make sure you’re never locked out of your lecture.

Student bus pass

Getting to university is just as important as getting around campus. A student bus passis a great choice, as operators like Stagecoach offer flexible travel on a term-by-term basis, so you won’t have to worry about renewing your pass each month.

Driving license

Carrying your driving license in your purse or wallet is always a good idea. It means you can prove your age when you pop in for a post-lecture pint.

Library card

When exam time looms, don’t leave home without your library card. Your enthusiasm for a study session can quickly dissipate when you leave your card at home, so keep your motivation levels high and carry it with you.

NUS discount card

Your student loan has just arrived in your bank account and you’re ready to shop — but don’t blow the budget. Get your hands on an NUS Extra card, which offers over 100 discounts. These little savings will help you justify your spending.

Trolley token

Doing the weekly food shop? Keep a trolley token close at hand to make sure you always have a way to get the shopping in.

Tastecard

If you’re a foodie, you’ll need a tastecard. Costing just £1 for a 90-day subscription, you’ll have access to a host of offers, including up to 50% off! It could work out cheaper than a takeaway.

Railcard

Return trips home don’t have to cost the earth. A 16-25 Railcard is well worth the investment—costing just £30 annually, you can save up to 1/3 on rail fares. You’ll need to show it when you’re on the train, so keep it close to hand.